The Department of Home Economics Education (DHEEd), University of the Philippines - Diliman, proudly shares the successful completion of the UP Circle of Home Economists (UP CHEc) application process for the academic year 2025-2026. Since its founding in 1991, CHEc has been a vibrant academic and social organization that fosters camaraderie, leadership, and a deep appreciation for Home Economics among BSHE students. The theme, “Your Circle Awaits: Passport to your Home,” truly embodied the spirit of exploration and community-building.

A Year of Engagement and Opportunities

Starting in October 2025, aspiring members participated in a series of activities designed to introduce them to the department, its faculty, and the organization itself. The process officially kicked off with orientation sessions during HEEd 101, HEEd 120, and HEEd 135 classes. These sessions provided applicants with essential information about the application mechanics and the organization’s goals.

Following orientation, applicants received their application kits and began collecting stamps by completing various tasks. The activities were structured around the “passport” theme, in which each activity represented a travel destination, and participants earned stamps and points, culminating in their “Home Arrival,” which marks their acceptance as official CHEc members.

Key Activities and Highlights

• Social Media Engagement: Applicants followed, liked, and shared content from DHEEd’s official social media accounts and website, enhancing their digital literacy and online presence.

• Departmental Participation: Attending the BSHE Welcome Assembly and Grand Pakain provided opportunities to meet advisers and fellow members in a fun, informal setting.

• Career Development: The annual Career Talk, organized by Assistant Prof. Mary Justine Clarise A. Trinidad, connected students with alumni from diverse industries, inspiring future career paths.

• Creative Content Creation: Students showcased their talents by creating social media content that promoted Home Economics and aligned coursework with real-world applications.

• Community Building: Activities like signing the signature sheet, spending time at the CHEc tambayan, and creating a digital portfolio fostered camaraderie and reflection.

• Bonus Opportunities: Participants went beyond the required tasks by volunteering, attending webinars, and sharing their experiences on social media, earning bonus stamps and points.

Home Arrival: Final Rites

The application process culminated in the “Home Arrival” event—a festive beginning-of-the-year gathering where new members were formally inducted into CHEc.

Keeshia Esguerra, CHEc President, reflected on the process: "The application process was successful and fulfilling. People are excited and look forward to congregating. The end goal is to build a community, so strive to see plans through."  

Halle Encina, the Student Council HE representative, shared her thoughts on the experience: “It was a really productive and meaningful experience. Throughout the application process, I got to meet and talk with the younger batches, and I formed closer bonds with them. It was also meaningful to have the chance to work closely with the department.”

Keeshia emphasized the importance of teamwork in the success of this event: “The ad hoc team assembled for the application process contributed to most of the success. I was available whenever I could, but I needed a team to implement the application process. Also, staying close to the department faculty and staff, asking for their help, and offering my help always bore great results. Giving incentives and snacks also contributed to success.”

Halle added, "I honestly think the core team/ad hoc team played a crucial role in executing the application process. Everyone did their best to engage with students from each year level, which helped build rapport and develop genuine connections within the department. This, in turn, created a more comfortable and welcoming environment for everyone involved. I also believe that without Ma’am Auwie’s initiatives and efforts to push this application process forward, it wouldn’t have been as successful as it is now."

Looking Ahead

As CHEc continues to grow and evolve, the organization aims to sustain its initiatives, strengthen its community bonds, and empower future leaders. The active participation and enthusiasm of this year’s applicants reflect the vibrant spirit of UP CHEc—an organization that truly embodies the essence of “passport to your Home.”

They both shared their visions for the organization’s long-term future. Keeshia hopes: “Annual events, the ones that tie-in with the BSHE curriculum, are still successful and fruitful, and I hope the org will become strong and stable on its own to be able to take on external opportunities.”

Halle added, “Aside from several successful events and initiatives, one thing I hope the organization will achieve is its continued existence. For quite some time, CHEc remained inactive, and it’s unfortunate that there's no active organization representing the BSHE student body. Keeping the organization alive ensures that BSHE continues to have student leaders they can call their own—leaders who are homegrown and nurtured within the department.”

Advice for Aspiring Leaders, New Members, and Future Applicants 

To future leaders, Keeshia advises, “Seek out help and don’t be afraid to admit to fellow students or to faculty or staff that you need help. Relationships are built on trust and experiences, and the best memories are made when you least expect them. Have fun, but make sure that events are happening for the right reasons and the objectives are being met.”

From Halle, “If any current members of CHEc decide to run for a position in the organization, I hope they have the drive and willingness to lead it fully. After being part of the council, I understand the challenge of juggling multiple responsibilities, which include being a student, an organization member, and a student leader all at once. Ultimately, I believe it all comes down to the member’s determination to guide the organization toward a more productive and successful future.”

And to the new members and future applicants, Keeshia’s final message is warm and encouraging: "Thank you so much for being here. Do not hesitate to reach out, build friendships, and initiate initiatives that will benefit the well-being of everyone involved. Org work should not drain you; it should be a good outlet outside of academics. If you ever feel stressed or tired from carrying the load by yourself, be honest and reach out to fellow members. You are welcome here, so enjoy and have fun together."  

Halle’s closing words emphasize authenticity and discipline: "Always stay grounded in your roots and the discipline of Home Economics. I can’t stress enough how important a deep appreciation for my program has been for me. It became my driving force in helping the organization grow, and that authenticity and courage are exactly what the organization needs most.”

To all new members and future applicants, remember: your Circle awaits, and your journey has just begun. Together, let us build a stronger, more connected community rooted in the values of Home Economics.